Arne Slot has dropped the clearest indication yet that Liverpool remain active in the transfer market as the Alexander Isak saga reaches its final days. The Newcastle striker, long linked with a move to Anfield, has refused to train and is pushing for an exit — and now, with Stuttgart forward Nick Woltemade set to join Eddie Howe’s side in a £69m deal, the door looks wide open for a dramatic switch.
Isak’s desire to play Champions League football and his admiration for Liverpool have been well-documented. With only days left until Monday evening’s 7pm BST transfer deadline, the Sweden international’s standoff with Newcastle could finally tip in the Reds’ favour.
Slot, speaking before Liverpool’s top-of-the-table clash against Arsenal this weekend, praised his squad depth but also admitted the club would not hesitate to act if “the right money and the right player” aligned. Could Liverpool pull off one of the transfer window’s most dramatic late moves?
Why Liverpool’s Isak Pursuit Is Back On
Newcastle’s willingness to spend big on 22-year-old Woltemade hints strongly at contingency planning. With Anthony Gordon suspended and Isak absent from training, Howe is bracing for a major reshuffle.
For Liverpool, Isak would slot directly into Slot’s flexible front three. At 25, the Swede fits Fenway Sports Group’s transfer model: proven at Premier League level, but still with peak years ahead.
Slot’s Telling Transfer Hint
“As always, we try to sign players that can help us, but there is no reason after the first two games to complain… If we can strengthen, we will always try to do that if it’s the right money and the right player.” — Arne Slot
Slot’s words were carefully chosen, but they reveal Liverpool’s readiness to act. The Dutchman referenced Federico Chiesa and youngster Rio Ngumoha’s game-changing cameos in recent matches — proof he values match-winners, the exact profile Isak fits.
Alexander Isak 2024/25 Premier League Snapshot
| Stat (2024/25) | Alexander Isak |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 30 |
| Goals | 20 |
| Assists | 3 |
| Shot Conversion | 21% |
| Big Chances Created | 6 |
source: sofascore match data – 29 Aug 2025
These figures underline why Liverpool see Isak as a transformational signing. His 20 league goals last season place him among the most lethal strikers in Europe, while his ability to link play with six big chances created adds an extra layer of versatility.
Analyst Verdict – John William
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Isak would be the “final piece” for Slot’s evolving system:
“Slot’s Liverpool thrives on verticality and pressing, but at times lacks a composed reference point up front. Isak offers that balance: he can run in behind, but he also links midfield to attack. Imagine Salah, Chiesa and Isak as a front line — that’s title-winning quality.”
William also flagged the timing: “If Liverpool wait until January, they risk missing out. A decisive late move could define Liverpool’s season.”
Key Insights
- Arne Slot admits Liverpool could still strengthen before deadline.
- Newcastle close to £69m Nick Woltemade deal, sparking fresh Isak exit talk.
- Isak yet to train this season as he pushes for move.
- 20 goals in 30 PL games last term underline Isak’s value.
- Transfer deadline: 7pm BST on Monday — saga may go to the wire.
What’s Next for Liverpool and Isak?
Talks between Newcastle and Liverpool are expected to accelerate over the weekend if Woltemade’s deal is finalised. Isak’s absence from training suggests his focus is already elsewhere, while Liverpool’s owners are weighing whether to meet Newcastle’s £85m asking price or attempt a structured deal with add-ons.
If Liverpool land Isak before Monday, he could be unveiled ahead of their next Champions League fixture. If not, the Reds risk entering a brutal winter fixture list with only Ekitike as their only natural centre-forward option. For Slot, the pressure is on — and fast.
Should Liverpool break their transfer record to finally secure Alexander Isak before the window shuts?
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